Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals 2011 Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals 2011 Rotax Max Challengerotax Max G Challengerand Finals G R2011and Finals 2011

Gasette GRAND FINALS 2011 THE OFFICIAL GRAND FINALS RACE JOURNAL

ROTAX MAX CHALLENGE GRAND FINALS 2011 ROTAX MAX CHALLENGE GRAND FINALS 2011 ROTAX MAX CHALLENGEROTAX MAX G CHALLENGERAND FINALS G R2011AND FINALS 2011

GRAND FINALS 2011 GRAND FINALSAL AIN RACEWAY 2011 - AL AIN / UAE 23. - 26. Nov. 2011 AL AIN RACEWAY - AL AIN / UAE 23. - 26. Nov. 2011 GRAND FINALS 2011 GRAND FINALS 2011 AL AIN RACEWAY - AL AIN / UAE 23. - 26. Nov. 2011 AL AIN RACEWAY - AL AIN / UAE 23. - 26. Nov. 2011 wwwwww.maxc.mahallexcnge-rothallenge-rotax.comax.com NEW AGE KARTING NEW AGE KARTING www.maxchallenge-rotax.wwwcom.maxchallenge-rotax.com ON FACEBOOK ON FACEBOOK © 2011 BRP-Powertrain GmbH & Co KG. All rights reserved. and TM are trademarks of BRP-Powertrain GmbNEWH AGE& KARTCoINGKG. NEW AGE KARTING ® ON FACEBOOK ON FACEBOOK

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THE OFFICIAL TYRE OF THE ROTAX MAX CHALLENGE

GRAND FINALS 2011 AL AIN RACEWAY - AL AIN / UAE 19. - 26. Nov. 2011

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BRP-POWERTRAIN - inserat 1.000.000 MOJO reifen A4 RZ.indd 1 04.11.2011 13:58:03 Uhr DI Gerd Ohrnberger Vice-President and General Manager BRP-Powertrain

t is my pleasure to welcome all of you to the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals editorial 2011 at the Al Ain Raceway. As every year the Grand Finals will be the most important event to finally dignify the best drivers in very competitive race classes. We love your passion for the karting sport and we know that you are the real motor of the Rotax MAX Challenge. II want to tell my appreciation to all competitors, their pit crews and families for their support of the Rotax brand. I am personally proud to be your host for this outstanding event. We will continue to work hard to make it one of the most successful karting events in the world. We will also continue to improve our Rotax karting products and make them most popular and user friendly products in the karting world.

Have a fair and safe competition with good sportsmanship. I wish good luck to all of you. Enjoy yourselves at the race track and enjoy the surroundings of the Middle East.

3 VROOM INTERNATIONAL KARTING is a magazine printed in English. It is distribuited to countries all over the world and about 50% are technical articles. You will also ﬁ nd track tests of engines, chassis ★ and other components.

The magazine also covers VISIT OUR WEBSITEon your international events and smartphone national championships m.vroom.it/en

Also available for iPad on www.zinio.com Mohammed Ben Sulayem ATCUAE President

n behalf of myself and the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE, I wish to welcome all competitors, team members and spectators editorial to the United Arab Emirates for the 2011 Rotax MAx Challenge Grand Finals at the Al Ain Raceway.

Motorsport in the UAE has come a long way in the last decade, and we are now in a position to hold world class events across our top level facilities. Two shining examples are the Yas Marina Circuit, used recently for the Formula One™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and the Al Ain Raceway, which is one of the finest karting facilities in the world. The whole team in Al Ain have worked extremely hard preparing to stage the RMC Grand Finals and with the assistance of the ATCUAE, I have no doubt that it will be a terrific event where we will see some exciting, yet safe racing.

I believe the Rotax MAx Challenge to be a great racing series, where young drivers can get their first taste of international success. I know I am not the only one looking forward to seeing the racing stars of the future in action in Al Ain this November.

Thank you.

5 START YOUR ENGINES!

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Hurry! Drive, ride or learn at Yas Marina Circuit.

To book, call 800 (YAS) 927 or visit www.yasmarinacircuit.ae for more information.

YAS SUPERSPORT SST FORMULA YAS 3000 CHEVROLET CAMARO SS YAS SUPERSPORT SST Driver Experience Driver Experience Drag Racing Experience Passenger Experience HE Khaled Bin Shaiban Al Mehairi

ello and welcome to Al Ain Raceway, the heart of karting in the United Arab Emirates. Motorsport in the Middle East is fast becoming a high-profile industry. Not only have we just held the 2011 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at

the spectacular Yas Marina Circuit, but we are now honoured editorial to host the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals 2011 here at Al Ain Raceway. From karting through to Formula 1, we continue to build and develop the infrastructure.

This year’s Grand Finals is being run under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan. We are also being supported by Yas Marina Circuit, Strata and Tawazun. The life blood of the United Arab Emirates is unity, and we all strive together to achieve our common goal. Our aforementioned sponsors are a fine example of what our proud Nation represents, and that they share Hour passion of raising the profile of this great sport.

Ask any Formula 1 driver where they started and 99% will tell you it began with karting. The experience that one gains from racing karts is invaluable, not only control of the vehicle, but race-craft and sportsmanship. It is these attributes that mould young drivers into international super stars. Here in the UAE we are keen to join the ranks of other countries in building the sport up from the bottom. The idea of Al Ain Raceway is to create a centre of karting excellence and to provide equipment, support and guidance for those who wish to join the Motorsport ladder. Together with the Automobile & Touring Club of the United Arab Emirates, our FIA/CIK sporting authority, we continue to run the UAE’s only national karting race series – the Al Ain Raceway Kart Club – to the highest possible standards and we have been very pleased to see how the grid sizes have increased in recent years.

We have come a long way over the last 4 years and our passion for success will only continue to drive us forward to achieve greater things. I personally welcome you all to the United Arab Emirates and sincerely congratulate all the drivers who have qualified for this prestigious event. I wish you the very best of luck and trust that you will enjoy your time here.

7 KART mAINTENANCE pRODUCTS NOW AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT ROTAX KART DISTRIBUTORS, SERVICE CENTRES AND DEALERS

ROTAX-XPS-Xeramic-advert-2011-A41 1 07-11-2011 12:48:42 3 EDITORIAL BRP-POWERTRAIN VICE-PRESIDENT

5 EDITORIAL ATCUAE PRESIDENT

7 EDITORIAL AL AIN RACEWAY CHAIRMAN

10 RMCGF A HISTORY THAT SPEAKS FOR ITSELF

ROTAX MAX CHALLENGE GRAND FINALS 2011 contentS 14 INTERVIEW 2010 WINNERS

1 6HALL OF FAME

lithium batteries 18 THE CIRCUIT GRAND FINALS 2011 AL AIN RACEWAY AL AIN RACEWAY - AL AIN / UAE 23. - 26. Nov. 2011 www.maxchallenge-rotax.com 2 2 TECH PARTNERS NEW AGE KARTING ON FACEB OOK MANUFACTURERS STATEMENT

Supported by: 24 CHASSIS SPECS

28 ENGINES SPECS BRP-Powertrain GmbH & Co KG Welser Str. 32, A-4623 Gunskirchen, Austria - Tel.: +43 7246 6010, Fax: +43 7246 6370 - e-mail: ofﬁ [email protected] Graphic Designer: Carla Diletti - Archimede Editore Srl., via Mozart 1, 04011 Aprilia, Italy - Tel.: +39 06 9258734 Editor: Archimede Editore Srl. - website: www.vroom.it - CLOSE UP e-mail: [email protected] Text S.Murtas Photos BRP, B.Kaligis, K.Johnson 30 © 2010 BRP-Powertrain GmbH & Co KG. All right reserved: ®™ and the BRP Logo MICRO / MINI are trademarks BRP Powertrain GmbH & Co KG. The information provided here is the property of BRP-Powertrain GmbH & Co KG and without its written permission may not be copied either in parts or in its entirety or made available to thirs parties. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. 32 MERITUS RACING

9 ROTAX TAg ENgINES FROM CIK GLAM TO SINGLE-MAKE BANG

ot everyone And it was a huge success. Just to Formula 1 drivers Jarno Trulli, Jos knows that give few numbers, Rotax engines Verstappen, Jenson Button and before won 10 World Championships Jan Magnussen moved up the giving birth (between ’88 and ’94), 10 karting ranks winning titles with to the most World Cup titles (between ’91 karts powered by Rotax engines. exciting and ’98), 5 European Formula Another well known example is single-make A Championships (between ’89 IndyCar star Alex Tagliani, who series in and ’95), and 7 European ICA after amassing a huge point the world, Championships (between ’88 lead through the fi rst four rounds BRP-Powertrain (formerly BRP- and ’96). And to add to such of the season, probably could Rotax) was a real protagonist outstanding fi gures, those who have taken the championship in CIK international events. It all won with Rotax engines were in the DD2 Masters category at started in the 1980’s when the some of the most representative the 2011 Florida Winter Tour. company produced a limited kart drivers in history. The likes of Scheduling conﬂ icts with his “day number of high performance Danilo Rossi, Alessandro Manetti, job” kept him away from the fi nal 100cc engines for kart racing. Davide Foré, not to mention round as he was busy taking fi fth

10 ROTAX TAg ENgINES FROM CIK GLAM TO SINGLE-MAKE BANG Opposite page, start of the Junior in the IndyCar season opener at Max in La Conca (I) at the 2010 St. Petersburg. Grand Finals. Then, in 1999, Rotax started its Below, Dan Wheldon on the top step own racing series on a national of the podium of the 1995 CIK World level. In 2000, the first Rotax Cup in Suzuka after taking the win powered by a Rotax engine. Dan was MAx Challenge Grand Finals also a keen supporter of the Rotax was “battled out” on the track. Florida Winter Tour history

ROTAX - A HISTORY THAT SPEAKS FOR ITSELF Now at its 12th edition, the Rotax MAx Grand Finals has become one of the most prominent event in

the international karting calendar. Conca edition, the 2011 Grand island of Puerto Rico, with 66 Started in 2000 with the Finals has confirmed the presence drivers representing 19 countries. participation of 66 drivers from of the 125 Max DD2 Masters 19 countries contesting the Max category as an independent 2001 Langkawi / Malaysia title in Puerto Rico, the Rotax MAx category. For the second In 2001 the finalists were invited Grand Finals has grown up to consecutive edition, in total four to the tropical island of Langkawi count 252 drivers from more than crowns will be contested in Al in Malaysia. A total of 68 drivers 55 countries in the 2010 edition. Ain Raceway circuit the coming from 29 countries competed for Not entirely happy with it, and 23 – 26 November 2011. But the RMC World Champion title. always looking to satisfy more and let’s take a look at the progress of more requests from enthusiastic the Rotax MAx Challenge Grand 2002 Pretoria / South Africa Rotaxians from all over the Finals since its inception. South Africa hosted the Grand world, BRP decided to increase Finals on a track just outside participation to 264 drivers for 2000 Puerto Rico Pretoria. Like the previous edition, this edition. And to remark the The first edition of the Grand 68 drivers from 33 countries outstanding success of the La Finals took place in the wonderful contested the final victory.

11 The likes of Danilo Rossi, alessanDRo ManeTTi, DaviDe foRé, noT To MenTion foRMula 1 DRiveRs JaRno TRulli, Jos veRsTappen anD Jan Magnussen MoveD up The kaRTing Ranks winning TiTles wiTh kaRTs poweReD by RoTax engines.

As a true world final demands, BRP-Powertrain always chooses the top karting facilities around the world. In 2003 and 2009 it was Egypt’s turn, in Sharm El Sheikh on the Red Sea, one of the most exoctic locations to date. On the closing day of the 12th edition of the Grand Finals, we will see what BRP-Powertrain comes up with for 2012... ROTAX CIK TITLES An OuSTAndIng hERITAgE

2003 sharm el sheikh / egypt WORLd ChAmpIOnShIp an even larger event by running 1988 - FA (E.CollArd) In 2003, BRP introduced the three categories: Junior Max, 1990 - FK (J.MAgnussEn) Junior category. It was also the Senior Max and the RM1 Shifter 1990 - FA (d.rossi) first time the company cooperated (now DD2). 1991 - FA (A.MAnEtti) 1992 - FK (d.rossi) with a chassis manufacturer in The event attracted 140 drivers 1992 - FA (n.giAnnibErti) order to supplying identical karts from 43 countries, a new 1993 - FsA (n.giAnniMbErti) to the competitors. The Junior sponsor, Swiss Hutless from 1993 - FA (d.tErriEn) category raced on a single-make Switzerland, which supplied 55 1994 - FsA (A.MAnEtti) chassis supplied by CRg, while chassis for the Junior category, 1994 - FA (M.bArindElli) the senior drivers raced on their while CRg provided the chassis WORLd Cup 1991 - FK (d.CrEvEls) personal chassis. The number of for the senior categories. BRP- 1992 - FA (d.rossi) participants increased to almost Powertrain also introduced the 1992 - FK (A.PEdEMontE) 100 from almost 40 countries. newly designed Mojo tyres on 1993 - FsA (n.giAnnibErti) this international platform. 1994 - FsA (J.trulli) 2004 lanzarote / Canary island 1994 - FA (l.CAsAzzA) 1995 - FA (d.WhEldon) 2006 viana Do Castelo / portugal The volcano Island of Lanzarote 1996 - FA (M.PAvloviC) in Spain welcomed the 5th Viana do Castelo in Portugal was 1997 - FA (K.MAtsuurA) grand Finals. The event saw for the host to the 2006 edition of 1998 - FsA (t.MAtsuyA) the first time all competitors racing the RMC grand Finals, reaching EuROpEAn ChAmpIOnShIp - FA on supplied single-make chassis a record of 186 participants from 1989 - (J.vErstAPPEn) 1991 - (A.MAnEtti) provided by CRg for the Junior 50 countries. 1993 - (g.dE niEs) category and by BRP-Powertrain 1994 - (d.Foré) for the Senior category officially 2007 al ain / united arab emirates 1995 - (g.PAntAno) launching the Rotax RM1 chassis The 8th RMC grand Finals took EuROpEAn ChAmpIOnShIp - ICA equipped with the brand new place at the al ain Raceway, 1988 - (M.KoEnE) 2-speed shifter engine, the 125 a modern, brand new kart 1989 - (J.vErstAPPEn) 1990 - (E.CoubArd) Max DD2. racing facility in the United 1991 - (d.PArrillA) arab Emirates, operated by Pro 1993 - (A.sArrAzin) 2005 langkawi / Malaysia Motorsports / al ain Sportplex. 1995 - (A.lEContE) The grand Finals returned to This event generated huge media 1996 - (l.vEvE) Malaysia for its 6th edition. This interest also attracting large EuROpEAn ChAmpIOnShIp - JICA 1990 - (b.lEindErs) time, BRP-Powertrain presented crowds.

12 2008 la Conca, Muro leccese / italy skills under all weather visitors and all people involved! The world-class track of La conditions.

Conca in Italy became the 2010 la Conca, Muro leccese / italy history hotspot of karting for 216 of 2009 sharm el sheikh / egypt For the 2nd time the grand the best RMC drivers from 55 In Egypt, the RMC grand Finals Finals were hosted in La Conca/ different countries. Embedded celebrated its 10th anniversary at Italy but it was the fi rst time in the beautiful surroundings the awesome desert track of ghibli that additional 36 DD2 Master of theNEW apulia TOKYOregion, the CIRCUIT - Raceway.chiba /Hot JPN sun, great2012 races January,29(sun)drivers entered the stage in their competitors gave an outstanding and parties with oriental ﬂ air made own class. Races couldn’t have demonstration of their driving this event unforgettable for drivers, been more exciting!

TOTALTOTAL CASHCASH PRIZEPRIZE JPYJPY5500.000-00.000-

MAXMAX WINTERWINTER CUPCUP inin JAPANJAPAN NEW TOKYO CIRCUIT www.eikoms.com 29 January 2012

Senior / Junior / Master / Micro Contact to : [email protected]

13 2010 WINNERS JUNIOR MAX, SENIOR MAX, DD2, DD2 MASTER

JORDI VAN MOORSEL JUNIOR MAX CHAMPION

CALEB WILLIAMS It was already great to win SENIOR MAX CHAMPION a ticket to the Rotax MAX Challange Grand Finals “I came into last year’s Rotax Grand Finals 2010. Taking part to this confi dent and determined as the previous year I big event was our goal. We had won the Rotax DD2 Grand Finals in Egypt. were very impressed when The practising went smoothly we arrived at La Conca. but for the qualifying we made We almost lived in a fi lm. But some small set up errors, which the fi lm was not very long resulted in me not qualifying very because in the series I had a lot of bad well. This meant starting 6th in luck. My father says that being there was all the qualifying heats. At the our goal, but I wanted more. I knew I start of the pre fi nal I was 3rd had the speed and ending the event but had a rear tire puncture. before the fi nal was not an option to me. I stayed out for 12 of the 18 laps Lucky I didn’t. Starting P16 in the second to make sure I qualifi ed to get chance heat, P31 in the prefi nal, P15 in into the fi nal. On the start of the the fi nal was my way to win the Junior fi nal grid I was 34th. I stood at title. An amazing experience and a big the back of the grid with my father and neither event i’ll never forget. him nor I had given up. We decided to go for broke. I went into the fi rst corner 34th and came out 14th and from then I knew I could do it. I put my head down and on the 9th lap I was 1st and was unchallenged from then on. I couldn't believe I had won and thought I was dreaming. It was a momentous achievement and just goes to show that you should never give up! It was the most amazing race of my career so far and I will never forget it. I would just like to thank my dad for never giving up and being the best mechanic and my fans for the support and Rotax for always hosting such great events.”

14 SCOTT CAMPBELL DD2 MASTERS CHAMPION

Winning the Grand Finals last year in Italy was the peak of tons of hard work and 7 trips to the Olympics of karting. It was very emotional for me and my father. Every year I try to get back to the Grand Finals because of all the friendships I have made over the last 8 years. I am excited to come back to Al Ain to attempt my title defense. Rotax has done an exceptional job at organizing this amazing event and they keep making bigger every year. Can’t wait! 2010 winners

DANIEL MORAD DD2 CHAMPION

“The atmosphere surrounding the Grand Finals is something that is indescribable. It’s one of those events that you need to be there to understand. The emotion that ran through my body as I made my pass for the lead on the last lap is diffi cult to explain. It was one of the most nerve-wracking moments in my life, but at the same time, I felt extremely calm. It was at that moment that I knew I would win. As I crossed the line, there was a complete drain of energy, as if I was fi lled with boiling water and the plug was pulled to empty it. It’s an emotion that I’m still trying to capture. Fortunately just after I crossed the fi nish line, there was a failure on the right front tracking rod, which caused a fairly memorable crash! I’m sure everyone has seen it by now in the racing industry. Never the less, I can call myself, World Champion!”

15 2000 Puerto Rico Gavin Cronje (South Africa) - MAX

2001 Malaysia Claudio P.Musso (South Africa) - MAX

2002 South Africa Mark Cronje (South Africa) - MAX

2003 Egypt Christiano Morgado (South Africa) - MAX Omar Martin (Spain) - JUNIOR

2004 Spain Wesleigh Orr (South Africa) - RM1 Benjamin Salvatore (France) - JUNIOR

2005 Malaysia Wesleigh Orr (South Africa) - RM1 Luuk Glansdorp (The Netherlands) - MAX Satya Rasa (Indonesia) - MAX MASTERS Kenneth Hildebrand (Estonia) - JUNIOR

2006 Portugal Ben George (Austria) – DD2 Ricardo Romkema (The Netherlands) - MAX Luc Sauriol (Canada) - MAX MASTERS Jorrit Pex (Belgium) - JUNIOR

2007 UAE Pier-Luc Ouellette (Canada) – DD2 hall of fame Christophe Adams (Belgium) – DD2 MASTERS Benjy Russell (United Kingdom) - MAX Colin Davis (United Kingdom) - MAX MASTERS Kevin Korjus (Estonia) - JUNIOR Nations Cup – Canada

2008 Italy Leeroy Poulter (South Africa) – DD2 Dennis Kroes (The Netherlands) – DD2 MASTERS Ben Cooper (United Kingdom) - MAX Martin Pierce (Ireland) - MAX MASTERS Facundo Chapur (Argentinia) - JUNIOR Nations Cup – United Kingdom

2009 Egypt Caleb Williams (South Africa) - 125 MAX DD2 J. Perez Santander (Spain) - 125 MAX DD2 MASTERS Luke Varley (United Kingdom) - 125 SENIOR MAX Christophe Adams (Belgium) - 125 SENIOR MAX MASTERS Ukyo Sasahara (Japan) - 125 JUNIOR MAX Nations Cup – United Kingdom

2010 Italy Scott Campbell (Canada) – 125 MAX DD2 MASTERS Daniel Morad (Canada) – 125 MAX DD2 Caleb Williams (South Africa) - 125 SENIOR MAX Jordi van Moorsel (The Netherlands) - 125 JUNIOR MAX Nations Cup – Spain

16 ARRIVEARRIVE ANDAND Karting at Yas Marina Circuit from just AED 80. DRIVEDRIVETuesday - Sunday: 3pm to 11pm. For more information visit www.yasmarinacircuit.ae Circuit of 2011 ROTAX SM GRAND FINALS OTH AS A POOL TABLE

The Circuit Al Ain Raceway is the only CIK International Grade B circuit in the Middle East. The track surface is billiard table smooth, with rumble strips running around majority of the circuit where you must be careful running wide as it tends to pull the kart onto the strips even further. BRP offi cial test driver Darrell Smith takes us through the circuit that will host the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals on 23-26th November. BY D.SMITH PHOTOS COURTESY OF AL AIN SPEED TRAP RACEWAY

AL AIN RACEWAY Length: 1,400 metres Width: 8-12 metres Paddock and parking: big and fully serviced www.alainraceway.com [email protected]

18 SM OTH AS A POOL TABLE

WHERE TO OVERTAKE The Al Ain circuit provides a variety of overtaking opportunities. With the circuit being approx. 1400 metres in length, there would seem to be plenty of chances. However as the circuit is very fast and flowing, the lap times come around very quickly; about 56”-57” for Rotax DD2, 57”-58” for Senior MAX and 58”-59” for Junior MAX. Following are some of the ideal places for overtaking together with some parts to take more care: 1 The main straight has a slight kink to the left with a raise CIRCUIT SPEED TRAP in the track that makes the kart feel very light which leads into the first corner as the initial overtaking place. T1 2 Corner 2 is an opportunity to pass, especially if the driver in T2 front of you looses any momentum exiting turn 1. 3 Corners 3 and 4 are possible, but a little dangerous. Speeds are high into turn 3 so most drivers are able to flow through turn 4. 4 There is a chance again to overtake into turn 7 if carrying enough speed out of turn 6. 5 The long back straight and into turn 8 would be a very late braking pass. 6 Finally there is the opportunity for a late and narrow run into turn 9 before leading onto the main straight. The run off areas are more than adequate on each corner of the Al Ain Raceway, yet caution must exercised when running the edge of the track due to the kerbs that have a tendency to pull the kart towards the outside. Keep in mind the sand that blows across the track surface which makes it slippery. The inside ripple strips are not all that high, but staying off these is generally recommended to maintain your speed.

l Ain raceway is the can be quite cool in the mornings metres with a small kerb running only CIK International and evenings, while anywhere on both the inside and outside Grade B karting between 22 and 32 degrees edges of the track. Caution must circuit in the Middle during the day. be observed when running onto East. these edges as the kart has a The 1400 m Rotax MAX tendency to ‘PULL’ even further The circuit is located Challenge Grand Finals onto the kerb. approx. 150 km configuration runs in an anti- from both, Abu clockwise direction and is There are 3 magnetic strips to Dhabi and Dubai, well known as a high speed view your sector times (1. start- with an elevation challenge, whilst also being a finish straight, 2. between turns of 400 metres very flowing circuit. 2 and 3, and 3. between turns above sea level. The track surface is very smooth 6 and 7), with the start-finish line The temperature with a low grip level. The width located halfway along the 250 m in November of the track varies between 8-12 main straight.

19 Circuit of 2011 ROTAX GRAND FINALS THE LAP T3 MID T4

T5 T6 ENTRY

T7 ENTRY T8

Good luck to all Rotax Finalists! 20 Just after the start ﬁ nish line the track veers left, with a rise in the track surface (adjoining track conﬁ guration) with the kart getting very light when taken close to the inside line. This then leads you into the fast turn 1, a double apex left-hander. Late braking, good roll time and smooth exit is required to T4-5 BACK STRAIGHT maintain speed leading along the short back straight and into the 90 degree left hand turn 2. After exiting turn 2 the approach to turn 3 is very fast, then tightens as the track winds through T3 and into turn 4. A smooth steering input is required with a relaxed acceleration to avoid rear slide through this part of the circuit. After exiting turn 4, there is another fast back straight with a left hand kink that leads into turn 5. Late braking is required, once again with good rolling speed and a tighter exit out of turn 5, leading into the approach to turn 6. Turn 6 is a long corner with full acceleration on the exit leading onto the third straight and down into turn 7.

A very fast but controlled entry combined with good roll time CIRCUIT will assist drivers running through turn 7. Any rear slide T6 EXIT through this part of the track will drag the performance from the kart along the straight and into turn 8. The long straight leading into turn 8 allows for plenty of overtaking opportunities and requires a very late braking effort. Turn 8 actually requires the driver to hold a very tight line for a considerably long time around this corner, which helps with a better set up for turn 9; the right hander leading onto the main straight. Turn 9 needs to be taken with caution. It looks easy, but if taken incorrectly, the momentum onto the straight is lost and consequently the speed down the main straight is lower than it needs to be. A relaxed turn in with patient acceleration is required to exit the corner correctly. Main straight and start ﬁ nish line to complete your lap.

T9 At this stage the actual gear ratio and jetting has not been confi rmed, however, this will be made available to all competitors closer to the event. The performance of the Rotax engines has continued to be developed and improved since the last time the event was hosted by Al Ain Raceway in 2007 therefore the gearing and jetting may be different. One of the most signifi cant areas is to run a higher tyre pressure than what could normally be used by many drivers. The smooth surface together with the constant wind that blows the surrounding desert sand across the track contributes to this.I look forward to seeing everyone at the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals who has successfully qualifi ed for this fantastic world class event where I’ll be available to offer some assistance if needed. Good luck to all Rotax Finalists! 21 MAnuFACTuReRS JunIOR MAX, SenIOR MAX, DD2, DD2 MASTeR

ROnnI SALA bIrel GILDAS MeRIAn SODIkart

SUPPORTING THE YOUTH HONOR AND PRIDE!

Being among the Rotax Finals’ technical partners For the second time and after La Conca last year, as chassis suppliers in the Junior category is a great SODI will be an Official Partner of the Rotax MAX pride for our company. Challenge Grand Finals. It is both a great honor and a pride for our company to allow 72 drivers from The Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals is one of the around the world to experience the performance of most widespread in the world and it actively involves our latest SODI chassis equipped with the fantastic many operators and customers for all the season. Rotax MAX engine. We are sure the drivers will be delighted with their SODI karts as they speed around Moreover, managing the Junior class is an initiative the Al Ain track. in line with our strategies, as we always supported As a major partner of Rotax for over 20 years, the youth categories in our sport. In the end, this the Sodikart Group (Sodi, Itaka, Box’s, Tekneex, event has a great visibility from the media point of Mekaone) works every day to promote Karting view, and it will be a good occasion to meet many around the world. As such, today we are proud to followers and customers, both effective and potential. support Rotax in what we regard as one of the most important and exciting races in the world.

Congratulations to Rotax for its outstanding organization and good luck to all the participants in the 12th Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals.

22 GIAnCARLO TInInI crg JORn HAASe haaSe

A LONG-LASTING PARTNERSHIP A RECOGNITION OF RELIABILITY

CRG is a worldwide leader in the manufacturing and After the first very positive experience as a Rotax distribution of karts, thanks to the constant research chassis partners, we are extremely pleased to have of new solutions and the high quality of its products, the possibility to cooperate with Rotax again this year features that have always characterized our brand. and supply the chassis for the DD2 Master class. TECH PARTNERS Innovation is our calling card and the foundation of our 59 CIK-FIA International titles, conquered in 31 years We are not a big company (although we have been of business. Research and development are not merely producing chassis for 21 years) and being a Rotax words, they are at the core of CRG’s mission. chassis partner for the second time means for us Our products range is able to satisfy every request. Our being recognized as a serious and reliable karting chassis are chosen by kart drivers from all around the company, producing top quality products. world and our distribution network includes nowadays more than 70 importers located in all the five continents. We look forward to the race in Al Ain. The partnership between CRG and Rotax is well established thanks to many years of cooperation. CRG and Rotax want to carry out an idea of competition open to all the drivers around the world and at present the Grand Finals is probably the only event recognised by CIK-FIA able to really represent the five continents.

23 SPECIFICATIONS JUNIOR MAX, SENIOR MAX, DD2, DD2 MASTER chassis

JUNIOR MAX BIREL RY30 SENIOR MAX SODI ST32

Homologation: 25/CH/14 Wheelbase: 1048 mm Front Stabilizer: Standard Frame: Double tube removable, CIK approved, Rear Stabilizer: Optional removable front stabilizer, adjustable front chassis Side Stabilizer: Standard geometry using eccentrics Ø Tubes: 30 Tube: Chrome molybdenum steel, ø 32 Wheel Base: 1045 mm Rear axle: Hollow steel, ø 50 - 3 bearings, ø 80 Rear Width: 645 Axle bearing supports: Anodised, quick release, ø 80 Front Width: 715 Stub axles: ø 25 mm Length: 1600 Rear hubs: Long with twin pinch bolts, anodised, Axle: 50X2x1040f fully machined, L. 90 mm Ø Spindle: 25 Brake: 4 piston hydraulic brake system. CIK Braking System: Hydraulic Cx approved under number 37/FR/14 Rear Brake Disc: 200X7 A Brake disk: Floating, turbo ventilated CI, ø 205 mm, Tank Capacity: 10 Lit Ca thickness 18 mm with increased ventilation Steering Wheel: 320 Mts Front wheels: Magnesium, 130 mm Disk Carrier: 50 Hq Rear wheels: Magnesium, 212 mm Crown Carrier: 50 Hq Tank: Removable 8 L Front Hubs: 85 Hi-Tech Seat: Clear polyester Rear Hubs: 50X95 Hi-Tech Steering wheel: Aluminium with suede-type Wheels: DF130+DF210 covering, Sodi logo embroised Security: Protective base plate for break disk, break pedale with 2 points attachment, integral chain cover, anti-locking bar Frame colour: Dark grey + varnish Bodywork: KG Sodi CIK approved Rear bumper: KG plastic

For more info visit Birel ofﬁ cial website www.birel.com For more info visit Sodi ofﬁ cial website www.sodikart.com

24 For further information visit www.rgmmc.com SPECIFICATIONS JUNIOR MAX, SENIOR MAX, DD2, DD2 MASTER chassis

DD2 CRG DARK RIDER 32 DD2 MASTER HAASE EDOX DD2

Homologation: DD2 Rotax Homologation: EDOX 30 – EDOX 32 – EDOX 14 Tubes Diameter: 32 Main frame tubing: Cr-Mo steel 32/30mm Wheel Base: 1050 Wheelbase: 1045 mm Rear Width: 650 Rear axle: 40 Ø mm, black, with 2 positions Front Width: 715 adjustable ride height Axle Diameter: 40 Braking system: (CIK/FIA 132/FR/14) Brake System: Hydraulic Brake lines: braided steel, silver Brake System Ven: 05 Cast Iron Rear brake disk: self-ventilated ﬂ oating rear disk, in Brake Disk: Floating Steel cast-iron, 190mm Ø, thickness 16 mm Fuel Tank: Capacity 8.5 L Front brake disk: self-ventilated, in cast-iron, Ø Steering Wheel: Diesis 160mm, thickness 11mm with front magnesium brake Front Hubs: Aluminium Racing disk carrier Rear Hubs: Aluminium Racing Rear brake caliper: Black anodized, special alloy Seat Resin forged caliper, 4 pistons, selfadjusting Wheels: 130/210 Magnesium Front brake calipers: Black anodized, special alloy forged caliper, 2 pistons, selfadjusting Optional Accessories Brake pump: Double-circuit brake master cylinder with Disk: Duralcan aluminium oil recovery tank Seat: Padded Stub axle: 25mm., hollow, with 10mm precision Steering Wheel: Carbon Look ground king-pin bolt Front Bar: Upon Request Steering wheel: 2 colours, leather with embroidery Rear Bar: Upon Request Wheels: Black magnesium wheels, low volume, 212- 130mm Chassis set up: 16 positions adjustable caster/camber pills, front ride height, adjustable Ackerman, - complete front stabilizer

For more info visit CRG ofﬁ cial website www.kartcrg.com For more info visit Haase ofﬁ cial website www.haase.it

specifications 125 junior max, 125 max, 125 max dd2 ENGINES

125 junior max 125 max 125 max dd2

Age: 15 years + Age: 15 years + Age: 15 years + Race class: National/International Race class: National/International Race class: National/International Maximum performance: Maximum performance: Maximum performance: 15 kW/20,4 hp at 8.500 rpm 21 kW/28.5 hp at 11,500 rpm 24 kW/32.6 hp at 11,750 rpm Maximum torque: Maximum torque: Maximum torque: 17 Nm at 8.500 rpm 21 Nm at 8,750 rpm 20 Nm at 10,500 rpm Weight: bare engine: 11.8 kg/26.0 Weight: bare engine: 12.0 kg/26.5 Weight: bare engine: 16.8 kg/37.0 lbs / with complete power pack: 23.4 lbs / with complete power pack: lbs / with complete power pack: 29.2 kg/51.6 lbs 23.6 kg/58.6 lbs kg/64.4 lbs Special features: Junior cylinder Special features: Cylinder with Special features: Chainless drive without exhaust valve exaust valve system, 2-speed gearbox, operated by Power pack: Silencer, carburetor, Power pack: Silencer, carburetor, shift paddle from the steering wheel fuel pump, engine, exhaust system, fuel pump, engine, exhaust system, Power pack: Silencer, carburetor, radiator, battery, battery box, cable radiator, battery, battery box, cable fuel pump, engine, exhaust system, harness, start button, On/Off switch harness, start button, On/Off switch radiator, battery, battery box, cable Chassis compatibility: from 950 to Chassis compatibility: wheel base harness, start button, On/Off switch 1,050 mm up to 1,050 mm Chassis compatibility: wheel base up to 1,050 mm

28 GUESS WHY WE GRANT A UNIQUE 12 MONTHS WARRANTY ON OUR KART ENGINES ! *

IT‘S YOUR CONSIDERATION, IT‘S YOUR CHOICE!

www.kart-rotax.com

© 2011 BRP-Powertrain GmbH & Co KG. All rights reserved. and TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP-Powertrain GmbH & Co KG and Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. respectively. *Off er valid from September 1, 2011 until January 31, 2012,w ith the purchase of a brand-new Rotax kart engine. FIND ROTAX- NEW AGE KARTING Be up to date on new campaigns and subscribe to the offi cial ROTAX Kart newsletter on www.kart-rotax.com! ON FACEBOOK MICRO&MINI MAX

CONSTANT EVOLUTION

ith an eye 125 Junior MAX for 13-16 by the kart business team, as they always set on year-old drivers (launched in rafﬂ ed a number of rotax kart evolution, the 2000) engines to participants (almost 50 range of rotax 125 MAX for 15 year-old children from 14 countries). Their engines is now drivers onward (launched in performance was both outstanding more complete than 1997) and exciting, and every race highly ever. Drivers can 125 MAX DD2 for 15 year- competitive, as victory was shared start as young as 8 with the micro old drivers onward (launched in amongst 5 nations. Unfortunately, mAx engine, a 6.8 hp engine 2002) the 2012 edition of the rotax ideal to learn the craft at entry mAx challenge Grand Festival is level. moving up the age limit, the MICRO AND MINI GO INTERNATIONAL. uncertain. shortly before the race mini mAx engine is ideal for pre Usually reserved for over 13 year- began, the cIK-FIA announced Junior level drivers with some racing old drivers, international events have their intention to cancel future experience, thanks to the 13.6 hp evolved in the last year to include international events for children. engine with top performance at mini drivers. Thanks to its product Brp fully intends to challenge this 8,500 rpm. Next in line, the Junior range, rotax has been in the decision to keep the rotax mAx mAx, mAx and two-speed mAx forefront, and stepped up its game challenge Grand Festival alive. DD2 for real pros. organizing an exclusive event for Besides the event in portugal, mini Best of all, with minor upgrades, the micro mAx and mini mAx drivers drivers had the chance to race in micro mAx can be converted to a in the summer called the rotax mAx Japan’s rotax mAx Festival held in mini mAx, Junior mAx and even challenge Grand Festival. motegi on 2nd October. A good a mAx – a concept that offers the The 2011 rotax mAx challenge number of drivers gathered to the owner one engine for an entire kart Grand Festival was hosted at the famous karting circuit as a one- racing career. Kartodromo Viana in Viana do off race. Fresh news also come castelo, portugal in late August, from France, where the FFsA, the 125 Micro MAX for 8-10 year- the same track of the rotax mAx national federation, has recently old drivers (launched in 2007) challenge Grand Finals in 2006. decided to use the micro mAx for 125 Mini MAX for 10-13 year- The event was sponsored by Brp- its minikart class for the 2012, old drivers (launched in 2004) powertrain, strongly represented 2013 and 2014 seasons.

30 MICRO&MINI MAX specIFIcATIONs mIcrO mAx, mINI mAx

mIcrO mAx mINI mAx CLOSE UP

Age: 8 - 10 years Age: 10 - 13 years Race Class: mainly national Race Class: mainly national Maximum: 5 kW / 6.8 hp at Maximum: 10 kW / 13.6 hp at 6,500 rpm 8,500 rpm Performance: 8 Nm at 5,500 rpm Performance: 12 Nm at 7,500 Maximum Torque: bare engine rpm 11.8 kg / 26.0 lbs Maximum Torque: bare engine Weight: with complete power pack 11.8 kg / 26.0 lbs 21.6 kg / 47.6 lbs Weight: with complete power pack Special features: Junior cylinder 23.6 kg / 52.0 lbs without exhaust valve, radiator and Special features: Junior cylinder exhaust that fit special kids chassis without exhaust valve, restrictors in Power Pack: silencer, carburetor, intake manifold and exhaust socket fuel pump, engine, exhaust system, Power Pack: silencer, carburetor, radiator, battery, battery box, cable fuel pump, engine, exhaust system, harness, start button, ON/OFF switch radiator, battery, battery box, cable Chassis compatibility: wheel harness, start button, ON/OFF base from 780 mm to 1,050 mm switch Chassis compatibility: wheel base from 900 mm to 1,050 mm

31 Creating International Motorsport Heroes

MERITUS.GP started with the its first Formula Asia championship by Renault (Alexander Rossi) and Thompson’s TMC Irish automotive in 1996, and our driver, Narain GP2 Series (luca Filippe), proof manufacturing business in 1980. In Karthikeyan became a national of the training, coaching and order to focus on developing the sports star in India. Another Meritus competition that Meritus and Asian Meritus race engineering services, hero is Takuma Sato won his first series provides. formula race with Meritus at the the TMC project and designs were 1999 Macau Grand Prix, we are very The Arab/Asian owned Meritus sold in 1988, creating the now- proud to have helped our Asian team is headquartered in Malaysia, famous Panoz Automotive and Elan drivers achieve their F1 dreams with where Peter Thompson’s Asian Motorsport Technology brands and Takuma joining Jordan in 2002 and partner Firhat Yuri Mokhzani thanks to the Panoz investment, the Narain followed in 2005. manages race operations. The TMC/Meritus heritage now includes Arab link is via Saudi businessman three Indy 500 wins! Asian motorsport offers a very Raad Abduljawad. cost-effective and competitive step The first Meritus formula car win from karting to formula motorsport The successful partnership has was at the 1989 British Grand Prix and provides all the career benefits seen the Meritus brand grow into when Anthony Reid (now a multi for ambitious drivers focused the regions premier race-team BTCC winner) won the Formula on F1. The big difference is that brand, conquering Asia with 34 Opel Lotus series support races. these Asian steps are at least 30% Asian motorsport titles in the past Meritus went on to win European cheaper than similar European 15 years. Meritus.GP missed-out team championships and helping formulae. winning the 2010 GP2 Asia Series many of today’s top drivers. by one point, however we has won Meritus champions have gone seven of the last eight Formula In the early 90’s the team to win European podiums in the BMW team and drivers crowns. In participated in F3 and F3000 and in Renault Eurocup (Oscar Tunjo), addition Meritus has won the team 1995 expanded to Asia. Backed by British F3 (Jazeman Jaafar), GP3 and drivers’ titles in the 2007 and Marlboro and Castrol, the team won Series (Rio Haryanto), World Series 2008 Formula V6 Asia Series.

32 Q & A WITH EARL BAMBER: TALENTEd COACH WITH MERITUS.GP

What makes a good driver? You can tell that a good background helps to build up the environment of a champion. When they arrive the young talents should know what a gearbox is and how it works. There is enough racecraft to learn, and you should not have to teach them basics. It is harder for a driver who comes from a non- racing background. Then he has to learn everything. Years of racing and experience in racing help more than the age.

What are the qualities for a fast driver? He must be passionate, hungry and prepared to push to the absolute limit. He must keep calm and calculated. He needs to have everything put into perspective, to see the bigger picture, and that only comes with experience. In fact, it is the same effort to be on pole position in GP2 or in JK Series. If you miss your best time by a tenth the consequences are bigger in a European series because there are more drivers in Europe than in Asia.

FORMULA BMW; NOW Singapore, Japan, China, Korea REBRANdEd THE JK RACING and India and maybe a visit to INTERVIEW AFIQ IKHWAN, ASIA SERIES Europe in 2012. WINNER OF SIx JK RACING ASIA SERIES RACES The Formula BMW junior driver The JK Series is without doubt development series has been a one of the best F1 junior driver What does the first Indian Grand huge success. The BMW-FB02 development series in the world Prix represent to you? Is it very car incorporates all the latest F1 today, being part of the F1 important? technology and has helped many environment provides opportunities This race is key for me. I have just of today’s top drivers make the for drivers to be linked to Formula1 finished a string of six wins in a row. transition from karting to formula teams, like the Meritus 2010 But I lost time and points in the motorsport. formula BMW winner Oscar Tunjo Championship at the start of the who was spotted by Lotus Renault season when I did not get everything together. So I am not the leader of the Many F1 drivers are Formula driver development manager and Championship. Now this win will be BMW graduates, in fact the 2004 is now a fully backed Gravity- very important. On top, India is a new Formula BMW champion is now managed driver. track. It makes it very challenging for the 2011 FIA Formula1 double world everyone. It is fresh and interesting. champion! The youngest man yet For more information on Meritus to achieve the dream! and the JK Racing Asia Series How did you meet the Meritus please check our 2012 drivers team? When BMW pulled out of Formula Guide at www.meritus.gp/series or Meritus organized different tests and One, the series was rebranded contact Peter Thompson at several drivers were evaluated in the the JK Racing Asia Series and [email protected] or on different test sessions. I did 5 or 6 continues to provide the same +601230274324 tests with Meritus. I learned a lot in Sepang as it is a very challenging track. high-standards which BMW I used thinking and experience too. established, supporting Formula One and racing in Malaysia,

The 2004 Formula BMW Champion is now the 2011 FIA Formula One Double World Champion! Meritus has won seven of the last eight Formula BMW Asia titles. Now rebranded, the JK RACING ASIA SERIES supports F1, racing in Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, China, Korea & India.

The champion of the 2011 Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals (Senior) will win the grand prize of a 2-day JK Racing Asia Series scholarship test with Meritus.GP

7 Times Champions 2003-2010